The S. B. College, established in August 1984, is a distinguished educational institution serving the needs of tribal and underprivileged communities in the Shahapur taluka of the Thane district in Maharashtra. Founded by a private trust named Dnyanvardhini, the college's mission is to provide quality education to those who have historically faced limited access to educational opportunities.
Spanning across an expansive 6.5-acre campus, the college is affiliated with the renowned University of Mumbai. In its early years, from 1984 to 1988, the college functioned on a non-grant basis. However, due to its commendable efforts in promoting education and empowering marginalized communities, the Maharashtra government recognized its invaluable contributions and began providing a full 100% grant to support its operations.
Since its inception, the college has made remarkable progress in terms of enrollment and diversity. Originally admitting 99 students in 1984, it has now grown significantly, currently boasting a student body of 1,726 registered students. Among these students, 1,003 are men, while 723 are women. Notably, the college has successfully attracted a substantial number of students from tribal, scheduled caste, and other backward communities, who make up 86% of the total student population. The remaining 14% of students belong to the general category, reflecting the college's commitment to inclusivity and ensuring equal opportunities for all.
Furthermore, the college has made notable strides in promoting gender equality in education. At present, female students comprise 41% of the total student population. Among these female students, a remarkable 85% hail from tribal and other backward communities. This statistic highlights the college's proactive efforts to address gender disparities and uplift women from marginalized backgrounds.
To cater to the diverse academic interests of its students, the college offers a range of programs. Currently, students can choose from six academic programs, including five undergraduate (UG) programs and one postgraduate (PG) program. The undergraduate options encompass a wide array of disciplines, including Bachelor of Arts (B.A.), Bachelor of Commerce (B.Com.), Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (B.Sc.I.T.), Bachelor of Commerce with Banking & Insurance, and Bachelor of Commerce with Accounting & Finance. These programs provide students with a well-rounded education and equip them with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue their desired career paths.
Additionally, the college offers a postgraduate program, allowing students to further their education in various fields. The Master of Arts (M.A.) program encompasses subjects such as Marathi, Hindi, English, History, and Economics. This opportunity to pursue postgraduate studies underscores the college's commitment to promoting advanced education and intellectual growth.
In conclusion, the S. B. College, established in 1984 by the Dnyanvardhini trust, has emerged as a leading educational institution in the Shahapur taluka of the Thane district in Maharashtra. Through its affiliation with the University of Mumbai, generous government grants, and dedication to serving marginalized communities, the college has successfully expanded its student body and academic offerings. By prioritizing inclusivity, gender equality, and quality education, the college continues to uplift and empower students from diverse backgrounds, fostering their personal and professional growth.
